OxyContin Addiction Treatment Program

The opioid epidemic in the U.S. is a growing problem, and OxyContin addiction is a big part of that. Doctors continue to prescribe highly addictive painkillers to patients, and many end up addicted. Many people don’t even realize they’re addicted until it’s too late. Breaking the cycle of addiction can be difficult, but it’s possible with the help of an OxyContin addiction treatment program.

Substance abuse treatment in Edmonds, Washington can be the perfect place to address the problems a person has with OxyContin addiction. At Northpoint Recovery, a compassionate team of medical professionals and recovery specialists provides a safe, secure place to detox and build the skills needed to live a sober life. Call 888.450.2153 today to get started.

What Is OxyContin?

OxyContin is a brand-name prescription medication made with oxycodone, a powerful opioid pain reliever. Physicians use it to treat moderate to severe pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments. OxyContin is a long-acting form of oxycodone, which lasts longer than other oxycodone products.

It is a controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid, meaning it’s partially man-made and partially derived from the opium poppy plant. Opioids work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the perception of pain and can produce a feeling of euphoria.

While oxycodone can relieve pain, it’s also highly addictive. OxyContin abuse can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Tolerance occurs when a person needs more of the drug to achieve the same effects. Dependence occurs when a person’s body becomes used to the drug and can’t function properly without it. Addiction is a chronic disease that causes compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite adverse consequences.

Signs of OxyContin Abuse

OxyContin abuse can be difficult to spot because the drug is legal and often prescribed by doctors. However, some signs may indicate a person is abusing OxyContin, such as:

Taking more of the drug than prescribed
Taking the drug more often than prescribed
Crushing and snorting the tablets
Taking the drug to get high rather than to relieve pain
Stealing or forging prescriptions
Doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions
Selling OxyContin

Side Effects of OxyContin

OxyContin can cause several side effects, both short-term and long-term. Some side effects of OxyContin include:

Drowsiness
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Slowed breathing
Liver damage
Kidney damage
Brain damage
Overdose

Spotting an OxyContin Overdose

OxyContin overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Symptoms of OxyContin overdose include:

Pinpoint pupils
Shallow breathing
Clammy skin
Loss of consciousness

If you recognize the symptoms of an overdose, it’s critical to get emergency help right away. If you are trained to administer Narcan, you can also do that while waiting on first responders. Opioid overdose can be reversed, but immediate attention is needed. Lapses in time can result in death or severe brain damage.

Breaking the OxyContin Addiction Cycle

OxyContin addiction is a severe problem, but it can be treated. Thankfully, there are several options available for treatment.

Medical Detox

Treatment for OxyContin addiction typically begins with detoxification. During detox, the body gets rid of the drug and any other toxins. This process can be uncomfortable and may even be dangerous, so it’s important to detox under medical supervision.

OxyContin detox may involve the use of FDA-approved medications, like buprenorphine and naltrexone, to reduce withdrawal symptoms and manage cravings. These medications may also make it uncomfortable to start using opioids again, inducing symptoms like nausea, sweating, and dizziness.

Our medical detox program helps you manage your symptoms while resisting the urge to relapse. Plus, with constant medical supervision, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the care you need if you experience severe withdrawal symptoms.

Behavioral Therapy

Medication-assisted detox is the first step in treating an OxyContin addiction, but it’s not the only one. Behavioral therapy is also a vital part of recovery. During therapy, individuals can explore why they used opioids and develop new coping skills that can help them resist cravings and prevent relapse.

Therapy can be done alone or in a group setting. Many people find that the support of peers who are also working to overcome addiction helps them stay motivated and on track with recovery.

We use behavioral therapy as a cornerstone in our individualized treatment plans. Recovering doesn’t just mean you stop using drugs. Instead, you learn why you started using them in the first place so you can address any underlying triggers that make you want to use drugs at all.

Support Groups

In addition to therapeutic treatment, joining a support group can be helpful for individuals struggling with OxyContin addiction. Support groups provide a safe and non-judgmental space for people to share their experiences, ask questions, and get feedback.

These groups can also provide valuable information about local addiction treatment resources as well as strategies for managing cravings and preventing relapse.

12-step programming that focuses on long-term recovery is a major part of Northpoint Recovery’s philosophy. Even after you leave our center, we can help you stay connected with local groups that promote your sobriety.